Sep 2 How Peninsula Chicago got its groove back (and why it's the hotel of the future)

When I first stayed at Peninsula Chicago in 2010, it was the leading hotel in Chicago and considered the number one hotel in the world by many hotel critics. For me, it was a little underwhelming. The property felt dated, especially when I had just visited brand-spanking new Peninsula Tokyo. Also, newer Chicago hotels gave it a run for its money.

Fast forward seven years later. After a $38-million facelift, Peninsula Chicago is back on top. I would even go as far to say the makeover is jaw dropping, especially when I consider the stark before/after transformation. I was booked in the very same room (Executive Suite), and it's a true Cinderella story.

Peninsula Chicago is the hotel that other hotels will learn from. It's setting standards with advanced technology, intuitive service and forward-thinking design. Check out some of the highlights that truly sets it apart in a competitive landscape.

All rooms are equipped with tablets that control temperature, shades, in-room dining and more. While this is becoming a standard in most five-star hotels, Peninsula Chicago's tablets allow you to choose channels on the flat-screen TVs. As far as I know, there is no other hotel in the country that has this technology.

Peninsula Chicago offers umbrellas in the rooms, so you don't have to stop by the front desk should it pour. In fact, there's not one detail they didn't consider for guests.

There is no other five-star hotel in Chicago that offers an outdoor terrace floating in the skyscrapers.

Peninsula Chicago is genuinely pet friendly, and they offer all the right amenities. Also, notice there are not one but two tablets on either side of the bed, in addition to master light switches. Next level!

Built-in phone chargers (for EVERY cell phone type) and power outlets right next to the bed? Yes please.